Is this event suitable for children?

No, the event is strictly for adults aged 18 and over due to the alcohol tastings.

Are there any allergy concerns?

Yes, the chocolates contain almonds and hazelnuts and are not suitable for guests with nut allergies.

Where is the event held?

The tasting takes place at The Bistro at the Courthouse, 75 Main St, Bushmills BT57 8QD, near Portrush.

How long does the tasting last?

The full experience lasts approximately two hours.

Can I purchase the chocolates and liqueurs after the event?

Yes, products from The Chocolate Manor and Dunluce Distillery are often available for purchase locally or through their websites.

Is prior experience with tastings required?

No, the event is designed for both novices and aficionados to enjoy the pairings and demonstrations.

Truffles & Tipples: A Decadent Chocolate and Liqueur Tasting Experience in Portrush | Events

Located in the charming coastal town of Portrush on Northern Ireland’s storied North Coast, the "Truffles & Tipples" experience offers a captivating evening where the rich craftsmanship of The Chocolate Manor and Dunluce Distillery converge for a celebration of local flavor and community spirit. Set against the backdrop of a region famed for its rugged beauty and historic landmarks, this tasting event invites visitors to immerse themselves in the artisanal worlds of handcrafted chocolate and distinctive liqueurs, all while supporting the vital lifesaving work of the Portrush RNLI.

Portrush, a bustling seaside town known for its dramatic Atlantic views and close proximity to the Giant’s Causeway, offers more than natural splendor—it serves as a vibrant hub for Northern Ireland’s food and drink heritage. At The Bistro at the Courthouse, 75 Main Street, this exclusive tasting unfolds, weaving together an exquisite sensory journey that spotlights the finest selections of Dunluce Distillery's liqueurs paired with The Chocolate Manor’s artisan chocolate truffles. Guests will enjoy four carefully curated pairings featuring Limoncello’s zesty brightness, the berry-rich Sloe Gin, the sweet and aromatic Arancello, and the decadent Espresso Martini.

This event transcends a simple tasting; it’s a masterclass in flavor layering and pairing. Live demonstrations from seasoned chocolatiers and mixologists reveal the techniques behind chocolate truffle crafting and cocktail creation, providing visitors with insider knowledge to heighten their appreciation of nuanced flavor profiles. Each pairing is designed to contrast and enhance—showcasing how smooth, creamy chocolates interact with the distinctive botanical notes and citrus undertones of the liqueurs.

What distinguishes Truffles & Tipples from other tastings is its deep connection to community. Both The Chocolate Manor and Dunluce Distillery champion local ingredients and sustainable production methods, embedding a sense of place in every bite and sip. Equally important, this event supports the Portrush RNLI, whose volunteer crews courageously protect lives at sea. Every ticket contributes to their life-saving mission, offering guests a chance to indulge responsibly.

Visitors will want to book early, as the event is adults-only and designed for an intimate, enriching atmosphere. Whether you’re a connoisseur of craft chocolate, a cocktail enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique evening on Northern Ireland’s coast, Truffles & Tipples promises a memorable blend of taste, culture, and charitable purpose. It’s a must-experience highlight for anyone visiting Portrush, merging local tradition with exceptional hospitality.

About The Chocolate Manor

The Chocolate Manor in Castlerock, Northern Ireland, is a boutique chocolate workshop and visitor experience led by Chief Chocolatier Geri Martin. The Chocolate Manor offers hands-on chocolate-making workshops, private group experiences, seasonal family sessions and specialist events that showcase artisan techniques and local ingredients. Participants learn tempering, moulding and truffle-making in guided sessions such as The Chocolate Box, The Truffle Shuffle, and the Taste Causeway Chocolate Experience.

Sessions range from one-hour kids’ workshops to two-and-a-half-hour artisan classes, and can be booked as private events for birthdays, corporate team-building and special occasions. Each workshop includes hot chocolate, take-home creations and access to The Chocolate Manor’s Chocolate Shop discounts where available. Special events like Truffles & Tipples pair chocolates with local liqueurs in collaboration with Dunluce Distillery, supporting community causes including Portrush RNLI.

The Chocolate Manor emphasizes transparent sourcing and hands-on education. Workshops include discussion of cocoa origins and use premium Belgian chocolate and local flavourings such as Bushmills Whiskey and Causeway Coffee. The venue delivers practical instruction suitable for families, groups and adult-only evenings, led by experienced staff with a focus on safety and enjoyable learning.

Located in Castlerock, the business attracts locals and visitors exploring Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coast. Booking information, session durations and age guidelines are provided for each trip offering. The Chocolate Manor combines craft chocolate skills, local collaboration and memorable, take-home results to create an approachable, reputable visitor experience. Advance booking is recommended during peak season and private workshops can be tailored to dietary or accessibility requirements.